Data centers are the backbone of modern-day information technology infrastructure, carrying out the operation of key applications such as cloud computing, big data, and artificial intelligence. They are designed to run around the clock, and even a bit of power fluctuation affects their functions.
In data centers, grid fluctuations can corrupt memory caches, force servers into emergency shutdown, or trigger system-wide failures that demand hours of recovery and diagnostics. Thus, many data centers are equipped with backup data center generators such as uninterruptible power supply systems (UPS), solar power generation systems, diesel Generators, or fuel cells to ensure stable operation even if the power grid is unstable.
Let’s see what the power requirements of a data center are and which data center generators are suitable for you.
The power supply for data centers must meet strict standards to ensure high stability, consistency, and safe operation. The main power requirements include the following aspects:
Uninterrupted operation of data centers depends on stable and reliable power. Sudden voltage drops, harmonic distortion, or frequency fluctuations can interfere with server performance or cause data loss.
Therefore, backup power sources (such as diesel generators and energy storage systems) should be able to switch in milliseconds to avoid or reduce losses.
With rising energy prices and increasing global attention to carbon footprints, efficiency is a strategic priority of data center generators. Power systems must be optimized not only for output but also for intelligent usage, as efficiently powering data centers has become an economic imperative. This includes minimizing conversion losses, deploying high-efficiency data center generators, and integrating with energy monitoring tools that track usage in real time.
Electrical systems in a data center must be safe enough, not only for the safety of equipment but also to protect the workforce from any unfortunate accident. This means that the generator for data center should include surge protection, short circuit protection, leakage protection, thermal controls, load balancing, and failover mechanisms that prevent cascading faults.
The most important thing is to check the certification and standards of the backup data center generators to ensure that they comply with international standards.
Data centers will need to expand to incorporate increasing business needs. As businesses scale, power requirements also increase, which means that the energy infrastructure should always be scalable. Optimal choices include modular data center generators, flexible UPS configurations, or alternators capable of handling variable loads to ensure long-term availability.
Data centers need power sources that can match the scale and ensure consistency, stability, and efficiency. Here are 4 common data center power supply sources:
During power outages or fluctuations, UPS can provide instantaneous power support (millisecond-level switching) to data centers, protecting servers and equipment until a reliable power source takes over. UPS has different energy storage batteries, such as traditional lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries. Modular UPS supports expansion to enhance flexibility.
While not universally adopted as a standalone power solution, many data centers are using solar data center generators as backups to reduce carbon footprint. In regions with high solar exposure, large rooftop or ground-mounted solar installations can be used in conjunction with grid/UPS for hybrid power supply. However, these solutions are not trusted extensively due to their high upfront costs and weather effects.
Fuel cells offer a non-traditional but increasingly viable power solution for data centers seeking zero-emission operation without relying on the grid. These systems generate electricity through a chemical process, often using hydrogen or natural gas, without combustion. It operates silently and can provide power for a long time.
Diesel genset data center generators remain one of the most dependable and widely used power sources in data center environments. In many installations, diesel generators even serve as the primary power supply of data centers as they can operate around the clock and have a long lifespan. Their ability to deliver large loads with consistent voltage and frequency makes them well-suited for critical infrastructure.
Modern diesel systems are equipped with advanced emission controls, noise suppression, and intelligent automation for smoother load handling and operational efficiency, which further increases their appeal.
Modern data centers typically use "grids+UPS+generators" as the basic power infrastructure. If you are looking for data center generators that can provide high power in the long term, EvoTec will meet your needs.
EvoTec stands out as a top-tier provider of high-voltage alternators built specifically for demanding environments like data centers. Our data center backup power generators are engineered to handle large-capacity loads with stable output and high efficiency, two critical factors in maintaining data center uptime.
Thanks to advanced electromagnetic design technology, EvoTec generator for data centers offers up to 1% higher power generation efficiency than typical competitors. It operates with lower temperature rise and better dynamic performance. Moreover, these systems can integrate smoothly with various power setups, supporting both standalone and parallel operations, as well as grid connections.
Our proven performance and reliability are demonstrated by real-world deployments across major cloud and enterprise data centers, including projects in Guizhou, Hunan, Yan’an, etc.
Running a data center is resource-intensive, but with the right strategies, operators can significantly cut operational costs without compromising reliability or performance. Here are three proven ways to improve efficiency:
Keeping track of how energy is consumed across systems is the first step toward efficiency. Intelligent power monitoring tools can identify underused equipment, detect imbalances, and reveal areas where consumption can be reduced.
Cooling systems account for a major share of data centers’ electricity use. When filters clog or airflow is restricted, the equipment works harder and consumes more power. Routine cleaning and maintenance of data center power generators ensure systems operate efficiently and keep temperatures under control with less energy input.
Older UPS units and data center power generators tend to be less efficient and more prone to failure. Replacing outdated infrastructure with newer, high-efficiency models not only reduces power consumption but also lowers the risk of costly downtime.
Overall, choosing the right data center uninterruptible power is a strategic decision that directly affects uptime, efficiency, and long-term reliability. With the right power supply for data center operations, backed by a thoughtful data center power design, facilities can maintain stability, scale with demand, and operate cost-effectively. Contact EvoTec now for reliable data center generators!
